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Travel & Driving Guide

United Kingdom

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Index
Contents

Page

UK Driving Tips

Driving Laws and Insurance

Licensing, Parking, Fuel and Min Age


Requirements

Congestion Zones & Tolls, Cross Border Fees

UK Car Rental FAQs

More Car Rental FAQs, Regions at a Glance

Touring Guides
London

9-10

Southeast England

11-12

Southwest England

13-15

East England

16-17

The East Midlands

18-19

The West Midlands

20-21

Northwest England

22-23

Yorkshire & Humbershire

24-25

Northeast England

26-27

Scotland

28-29

Wales

30-31

Northern Ireland

32-33

Getting into the United Kingdom

34

Accommodation Ideas

35

Stay Safe & Healthy, Public Holidays

36

Key Facts

37

Money Matters

38

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Touring the UK By Car


The United Kingdom consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and has been a favorite
destination for visitors from across the globe for centuries. Although small in size, the UK is widely varied in all
of its aspects. The UKs landscapes vary from wild moors, lush forest, mountainous terrain, craggy coastlines
and pristine beaches. Its people are a unique melting pot of different cultures, each blended together with
their own histories and traditions. The whole of the United Kingdom is full of heritage, historical monuments,
ancient ruins, magnificent castles and cathedrals and brilliant gardens and parks. The cities of the UK are bustling, full of life, fantastic local cuisine, great nightlife, museums and galleries.
With so much to interest every traveler, a self drive holiday is the perfect way to see as much of the UK as you
wish. The UK has an excellent road network that will take you to all the famous sites, as well as allowing you the
freedom to uncover some undiscovered treasures as well. This guide is aimed at the traveler that enjoys the
independence, comfort and flexibility that comes with their own vehicle. Weve included information youll
need for your self drive holiday, such as the rules of the road, rental FAQs, even congestion charge information, as well as some great ideas on touring the many different regions in the United Kingdom.

Tips in Driving In the UK


Drive on the LEFT hand side of the road. The driver sits
on the right hand side of the car.
Familiarize yourself with your rental car and its controls
before you leave the depot.
Observe the speed limits. Speed cameras, hand held
devices and portable speed detection devices are used
by patrolling police to catch speeding drivers, and hefty
fines are issued for excessive speed.
Dont Drink and Drive! The maximum blood alcohol
level is 0.08%, and DUI drivers can face hefty fines or
imprisonment. So be smart, dont drink and drive.
Be aware of U-Turners. Drivers are permitted to execute a u-turn or a 3 point turn on any UK road unless its
expressly forbidden.
When driving rural roads, be patient. You may get stuck
behind a slow moving vehicle but dont try to overtake
on narrow winding roads.
Some country roads are too narrow for two cars to pass,
so make use of the shoulders, where one driver can
move to the side of the road and give way to oncoming
traffic.
Keep your headlights on during the day, especially on
country roads and in foggy or misty conditions.

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Driving Laws in the UK


Unless otherwise indicated, the speed limits in the UK are:
City: 30mph
Country roads: 40-50mph
Single Lane Highways: 60mph
Double Lane Highways: 70mph
Seat belts: You and your passengers must wear a seat belt at
all times, including children over the age of 14.
Child Safety: Children must be properly secured in an
appropriate Child Safety Seat:
* Up to 30 lbs (birth to 9-12 months): Rear- facing baby seat.
* 2040 lbs (9 months to 4 yrs): Forward facing child seat.
* 3550 lbs (4-6yrs) : Forward facing child seat or booster seats.
* 5080 lbs (6yrs and up): Forward facing child seat or booster cushions.
* Up to 11 years and under 54 inches: children must be seated in a child seat booster cushion or seat.
* 12 years up: a seat belt must be worn.
It is illegal to talk on a mobile phone while driving in the UK.
Motorcyclist must wear a helmet.
Park only where its permitted. Check to see if there are parking meters where you will have to pay and display the parking receipt on your cars dashboard. Otherwise you run the risk of heavy fines and clamping in
major cities.

London Bridge

Insurance
Car Rental companies in the UK will normally include:
Third Party insurance: Compulsory insurance that will be included in your car rental rate. This covers
you for other peoples injury and damage to their vehicle.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This limits your financial liability for damage to the rented vehicle,
and is normally included in prepaid car rental rates. Rentals are normally subject to liability deductible, which can be reduced at the time you collect your rental car.
Theft Loss Cover: This limits your financial liability for the loss or theft of the rented vehicle and is
generally included in prepaid car rental rates.
Fire and Liability: This limits your financial liability for bodily injury or death, and is normally included in prepaid car rental rates.
Personal Accident Insurance: This covers the driver for personal injuries and is generally not included in your car rental rates. It is considered an optional extra that you can take upon collection of the
car.

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Min & Max Age Requirements

Parking

Min Driving Age: Usually 21; however in some regions


the minimum age is 25.
Young Drivers Surcharge: Drivers aged 21-22 years
may be charged from 15+tax per day, drivers aged 2324 years may be charged 11+VAT per day.
Max Driving Age: The majority of locations in the UK do
not have a maximum driving age, however there may
be restrictions for drivers aged 70-75 in some regions.
In some cases, aged drivers may be required to hold a
letter from their GP stating they are healthy and fit to
drive. Check with Auto Europe for further details.

In major cities, parking zones are differentiated


by colored zones.
Blue Zones: short term (1 to 1 hours)
Green Zones: longer periods (2 to 4 hours)
Red Zones: parking not permitted at any time.
After parking restrictions have been lifted you
can park on streets with single yellow line after
6pm, but you cannot park on streets with double
yellow lines.

License
Requirements

Most vehicles in the UK run on gasoline, however


many of the cars run on diesel. At gas stations,
gasoline is sold as either Four Star at the red
pump, or Unleaded at the green pump. Theres in
increasing number of electric or electric-petrol
combined and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
available.

A full driving license is required to drive in the UK. All


drivers must have held a full valid driving license for a
minimum of one year. North American residents are not
required by law to have an international drivers license,
although it is recommended since an interna-tional
license holds more credibility with the local traf-fic
police than your home driving license. Contact Auto
Europe for further information.

Car Fuel

Rural Road, Lakes District

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UK Congestion Zones and Road


The congestion charge is a fee charged to
those that drive their vehicles within certain
cities and towns during periods of peak demand to help reduce traffic congestion and
reduce pollution. So far in the UK, London
and Durham currently charge congestion
fees.
Since 2007, the London Congestion
Charging Zone has included the areas of;
Bayswater, Notting Hill, North and South
Kensington, Knightsbridge, Chelsea,
Brompton, Belgravia, Pimlico, Victoria, St
James, Waterloo, Borough, City of London,
Clerkenwell, Finsbury, Holburn, Bloomsbury, Soho, Mayfair and parts of Marylebone. The daily charge for driving or parking within these areas between 7.00am and
6.00pm Monday to Friday is 8. For more
information, visit www.cclondon.com

Cross Border Fees and One Way Rentals


Traveling between England, Scotland and Wales:
Normally there are no additional fees to travel between these mainland countries, and one way rental will not
incur an international one way fee between countries within the UK. However some suppliers may charge this
fee. Travel to islands such as Isle of Man, Isle of White, Shetland Islands and Orkney Island is allowed with no
additional charge, however travel to the Channel Islands will often incur an extra fee. One way rentals to these
islands are not permitted. Check with Auto Europe when you book to find out further information.
Traveling between Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland:
Depending on the supplier, car rental companies will sometimes charge a Cross Border Fee from 25-30 to
travel from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland. Some companies require drivers attain written permission from the rental supplier to travel into Northern Ireland, as well as Wales, England and Scotland, and may
face substantial fines to travel to other countries without permission. The cost to travel from Northern Ireland
to the Republic of Ireland will vary depending on the car rental supplier and often depends on the length of the
time spent abroad, and can range anywhere from nil to 135. Check the details of your car rental before you
book to ensure that youre aware of any additional charges.
One Way Car Rentals:
There may be additional charges to collect from one city and drop off in another within the same country,
depending on the cities involved. Some companies will not permit international one way rentals from Republic
of Ireland to Northern Ireland, and for one way rentals from Northern Ireland to Rep of Ireland fees vary anywhere from 100-300, so before you book find out any other additional charges from Auto Europe. Remember that you may not be covered by insurance if you travel to another country without the car rental companys
permission.

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UK Car Rental FAQs


What kind of car should I rent for my holiday in UK?
This depends on where youre traveling, how many people are traveling and the style of driving you intend to
do. Cars range from small (economy, compact) to larger size cars (intermediate, full size), to convertibles and
luxury vehicles. For short trips with fewer passengers opt for the smaller cars; for longer trips with the family
then a larger car , van or SUV would be more suitable. There are plenty of car rental options to choose from; it
all depends on your personal needs.
How do I figure what car is right for me?
You can use the ACRISS system to show you which car will suit your needs.
Class

Fuel Capacity

Type

Transmission

Fuel/Air Cond.

M = Mini
E = Economy
C = Compact

0.8 - 1.0
1.0 - 1.4
1.2 - 1.6

B = 2 Door
D = 4 Door
C = 2/4 door

M = Manual
A = Automatic
N = Manual 4WD

R = Yes
N = No
D = Diesel Air

F = Full size

2.0 - 3.2

L = Limousine

C = Manual AWD

Q = Diesel No Air

P = Premium

2.0 - 4.2

S = Sports Car

B = Auto 4WD

H = Hybrid Air

L = Luxury

2.0 - 4.2

T = Convertible

D = Auto AWD

I = Hybrid No Air

X = Special

1.2 - 3.0

J = All Terrain

E = Electric Air

R= Recreational

C = Electric No Air

F = 4 Wheel Drive
X = Special
K = Commercial
Van/Truck
P = Special
X = Special
Can I rent an automatic car in UK?
Yes, however automatics are generally more expensive than manual cars.
Will I be able to collect my rental car direct from the airport once I arrive, or will I have to take a shuttle bus to
the depot?
The majority of car rental companies have desks at both international and domestic airport terminals, and many
will have a shuttle bus that will take you direct to your rental vehicle. Check with Auto Europe before you arrive
to find out the details to collect the car.
Are there additional fees to collect my rental car from UK airports?
Auto Europes car rental rates usually do include the airport or premium location fees for car rental collections
in the UK. Check on your prepaid voucher to make sure that this is included.
What about collecting my rental car from downtown locations in the UK?
Downtown, airport and railway locations are all considered premium locations, and as above these fees are included in Auto Europe s inclusive car rental rates.
Do I need a credit card to collect my car rental?
Yes. Car rental suppliers will usually freeze the deductible of the vehicle (from 550) which will be refunded to
your credit card when the rental car is returned at the end of the rental. Some suppliers refund the deposit via a
check that is mailed to the renters residential address.
Can I collect my rental car in one UK city and drop it off in another UK city?
Yes, this is certainly possible, but in most cases there may be a one-way fee payable when you collect your rental. Check with Auto Europe before you travel to find out any additional costs. In most cases, there are no fees for
one way rentals within mainland UK.

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More UK Car Rental FAQs


Id like to visit the island of Ireland on my holiday then return it to United Kingdom. Is this possible?
This is possible. Most car rental companies will permit travel to Northern Ireland with little or no fee, however
travel to the Republic will incur an additional fee, anywhere from 60 for the rental. Check with Auto Europe for
further details.
Can I collect my rental car in mainland UK and drop it off in the Republic of Ireland?
Most suppliers will not permit international one ways from mainland UK to the Republic of Ireland, however
one way rentals from mainland UK to Northern Ireland is permitted with a substantial one way fee (min 500).
This will depend on the car rental supplier. Check with Auto Europe when you book your car rental.
Should I take out additional insurance on my car rental?
Rental rates will include basic insurance: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third Party Liability and Theft Protection. In the event that your rental vehicle is accidentally damaged, regardless of who is at fault, or stolen, the
Insurance deductible is the maximum amount you are liable for. In the UK, the base amount of deductible begins at 550.
Should I rent GPS for driving in the UK?
GPS rentals are available from Auto Europe. Our rates include the GPS and full country mapping. The GPS is
de-livered direct to your home or travel agent before you depart. GPS units can also be requested direct with
some suppliers, however this will be at their own rates.
What do I do if I want to extend my car rental while Im in the UK?
Once the car rental has commenced you can call Auto Europe toll free at 00-800-223-5555-5, who will
arrange the car to be extended and you will be charged the additional days based upon the current rate with
Auto Europe.

United Kingdom Regions


London
Southeast: Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex,
Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and
West Sussex
Southwest: Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Dorset,
Wiltshire, Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
East England: Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire,
Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
East Midlands: Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Rutland,
Northampton, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire
West Midlands: Herefordshire, Worcestershire,
Warwickshire, West Midlands County, Shropshire,
Staffordshire
Yorkshire & Humberside: Yorkshire and Lincolnshire
Northwest: Liverpool and Manchester
Northeast: Northumberland, County Durham, Tyne &
Wear and Tees Valley
Scotland
Wales
Northern Ireland

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London
London is the capital of the United Kingdom and is one of the worlds largest financial centers, alongside New
York. London is the dynamic, multicultural and historically vibrant epicentre of Europe. Whether its festivals,
fashion, food, fun or film youre after, you will find it all in the sprawling metropolis of London, and then some!
The sheer scale of London ensures visitors a never ending supply of sites to see and cultures to experience. Be
entertained at Knightsbridge and Soho, be charmed by the bountiful green places and Royal Parks and
unwind at a traditional, cosy English pub in one of the undisputed greatest cities in the world.

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

Tour Buckingham Palace - Tickets start from around 17


New Years Day Parade. Thousands of people line for an adult ticket.
the streets of the city of Westminster to watch the
Visit Big Ben - One of Londons most loved landmarks.
10, 000 or so participants.
Tour the many Museums and Galleries - Visit the British
February:
Chinese New Year celebrations.
Museum, the Victoria and Albert, Sir John Soanes Museum

January:

March:

or the Natural History and Science Museum.

May:

Visit Trafalgar Square - One of Britains most popular visi-

London Book Fair.


Chelsea Flower Show.

tor attractions.

June:

Spend an afternoon in the parks - Stroll through WestminWimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships from late ster, Holland, Hyde, or Regents Parks.
June through to early July.
Stroll through the famous street markets - Take a trip to
July:
Great British Beer Festival.

August:

Notting Hill Festival.

September:

Chelsea Antiques Fair.

October:

the Camden Market, Portobello Market or the Greenwich


Market.
Visit the Westminster Abbey - Attend the Evensong service
and see the remarkable Abbey choir sing, or simply tour
the spectacular interior.

London Film Festival.


Trafalgar Square Festival.

November:

Christmas Lighting Ceremonies.

Westminster Abbey, London

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Self Drive Tours around London


London to the New Forest
To get to the New Forest from London take the M3 directly
out of London and then head along the M27. The drive will
take you approximately one and a half hours. Once you get
there, visit the New Forest National Park which is the smallest National Park in Britain, stroll through the historic streets
of Hythe Village or visit the
Calshot Castle. If youre
looking for something
slightly more adventurous,

New Forest National Park

why not head to the New


Forest Water Park.

London to Windsor
For the perfect day out, take a leisurely drive along the M4 down to Windsor. The trip will take you under
an hour and on arrival you will be spoilt for choice of things to do. Stroll through the historically quaint
streets, take a half day boating trip along the river and
finish the day by visiting the famous castle. The
Windsor castle is the largest inhabited castle in the
world and is still used as an official residence by the
British Monarch. Queen Elizabeth II spends most of
the weekends at the castle entertaining for both
private and state functions. After a tour of the castle, stop at one of the many restaurants and cafes
for a bite to eat before heading back to London.

Windsor Castle

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Southeast England
The Southeast region of England consists of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight,
Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex. Almost all of these regions are within a two hour drive from the center of London, and are firm favorites among Londoners and seasoned visitors alike. With gorgeous seaside towns,
vibrant lifestyles, cities built around world famous universities and rich culture and history, the southeast of England has something to offer every traveler!

Best Things to See & Do

Whats On

Brighton & Hove, East Sussex


February:
Brighton Beach Fantastic restaurants, bars and clubs in a
Brighton & Hove Half Marathon
top seaside location
March:
Visit the Royal Pavillion Magnificent palace created by
Oxford Literary Festival, Oxford
King George IV
Easter festivals, Canterbury Held over March &
Walk on Brighton Pier Buskers, fish & chips, cool shops
April
and fresh salt air.
Torpids Rowing Race, Oxford College rowing
Oxford, Oxfordshire

See the famous Oxford University - Explore the wonderful


architecture and gentle spires in the University buildings.
Shopping in Oxford Go to Oxfords Covered Market, with
everything from clothes to books to food, or hit the High
Street for unique boutiques and shops.
Visit an historic pub Have a pint at the Crown, or the Old
Parsonage Hotel that were patronised by famous literary
greats.
Canterbury, Kent

Visit the Canterbury Cathedral This magnificent cathedral dates back to 597AD, with beautiful stained glass and
is the home to the Archbishop of Canterbury.
See St Augustines Abbey, Canterbury These remains are
World Heritage listed.
Canterbury Castle See the ruins of the Norman castle
built in the 11th AD.
Dover, Kent

Walk along the White Cliffs of Dover The scenic North


Downs Way will take you along the low hills along the
coast.
Visit the Dover Castle See the castle that has a 2,000 year
old history, as well as holding a pivotal role in WWII.
Windsor & Eton

Visit Windsor Castle See the historic and largest occupied


castle in the world, and the official residence of the Queen
of England.
Take a tour of Eton College See where Princes William
and Harry were educated
See Frogmore House This elegant property is the final
resting place for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

race
May:
Brighton Festival, Brighton Three week festival
with concerts, parades and street entertainers.
Canterbury Half Marathon
Eights Week, Oxford Main event of inter-college
rowing races
June:
Classic Car Run, Brighton
Cowley Road Carnival, Oxford Oxfords largest
festival
Stour Festival, Canterbury 10 day music festival
July:
Kent Beer Festival, Canterburys Merton Farm
Tour de France Cyclist ride from London, finishing in Canterbury in early July
August:
Reading Festival, Berkshire International music
festival
Classical Proms, Oxford Open-air classical concert
Herne Bay Festival, Canterbury Music, fireworks
and street parades
Zippos Circus, Brighton & Hove
September:
Windsor Festival Annual festival held over 7
days.
Hop Hoodening, Kent Traditional English festival
October:
White Night, Brighton Illuminations, city tours
and street performances
Canterbury Festival, Kent
November:
Veteran Car Run, Brighton
Bonfire Night Held beginning of November
across southeast England
Euro Fair Held late November across Canterbury,
a massive Christmas market

Brighton Pavilion

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Self Drive Tours in Southeast England


Brighton to Portsmouth
This route follows the coast from Brighton to the town of Portsmouth. Begin this
tour from the seaside town of Brighton & Hove, and follow the A27 west through
Worthing, East Preston and Littlehampton, and up to Arundel. Stop here to
check out the 11th century castle and cathedral, as well as quaint museums, tea
rooms and antique shops.
Drive down to Littlehampton and along the coast to Bognor Regis, and then
back onto the A259 to the town of Chichester. Pick up the A27 and head west
along to the city of Portsmouth. This lovely town is rich in naval and cultural history, and its worth a visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the Spinnaker Tower and the Southsea Castle. Outside of Portsmouth is the Portchester Castle,
which is a well preserved Roman fortification that is worth the five minute drive
from town.

Arundel Cathedral

Tour the Colleges


Follow this drive to see Englands two most famous universities, Oxford and
Cambridge. Begin in Oxford, where youll be able to tour the university and
its extensive grounds. Head north on the A44, stopping off in the small town
of Woodstock which is home to the stately home of Blenheim Palace and is
open to the public. Drive north east along to the town of Northampton,
which is home to the Guildhall and holds one of Britains oldest markets as
well as having its own university.
From Northampton follow the A428 through Bedford and onto Cambridge.
This wonderful town is home to Kings College, Queens College and Trinity colleges, to just a few. Explore the
colleges, as well as the beautiful parks, gardens, many museums and churches.

Christ Church College, Oxford

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Southwest England
The Southwest of England has long been regarded as one of the most beautiful regions in Britain. This region
consists of Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. The
Southwest provides magnificent scenery, wild moors, great beaches, stunning coastlines, charming villages
and vibrant cities. All this, along with history and heritage like no other! Perfect for the self drive holiday.

Whats On
March:
Somerset Spring Festival of Food & Drink
April:
Apr Sept: Classic Cars on the Prom, Seafront, Bournemouth
World Heritage Day, Bath
May:
Salisbury International Arts Festival
Bath Dance Festival, Bath
Mayfest, Bristol
Dragonboat Regatta, Gloucester
Cheese-Rolling Race, Gloucestershire
June:
Glastonbury Festival, Somerset World famous music festival
Exmouth Summer Festival
September:
Jane Austin Festival, Bath
Cornwall Food & Drink Festival, Lemon Quay, Truro
October:
British National Surfing Championships, Fistral Beach,
Newquay
Falmouth Oyster Festival, Falmouth, Cornwall
November:
Fireworks and Guy Falkes Celebrations Weymouth,
Gloucester, Bournemouth and Bristol
Bath Mozart Festival, Bath

Devon Thatched Cottage

The Cornish Coast

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Best Things to See & Do in


Southwest England
Bristol

See the Clifton Suspension Bridge Stroll across this amazing bridge and enjoy
the views of the Avon Gorge.

Take the family to the Bristol Zoo Gardens See over 450 species of wonderful
animals from around the world, set in 12 acres of gardens.
Get scientific Discover Explore-At-Bristol and explore the amazing hands-on
Planetarium.
Shop til you drop Visit Cabot Circus, Broadmead and the Mall Bristol for brilliant retail therapy.
See the worlds fist great ocean liner Explore Brunels SS Great Britain.
Enjoy the nightlife Eat out at waterfront restaurants, bars or visit the trendy
bars on The Strip.

The Roman Baths, Somerset

Gloucestershire

Visit Berkeley Castle Fantastic medieval fortress, and place where King Edward II was murdered.
Drive around Cotswolds Discover the gentle hill country, and visit gardens and lovely historic houses.
See the Gloucester Cathedral See the beautiful honey colored lime-stone cathedral in the heart of Gloucester.
Somerset

Visit World Heritage Listed Bath See the Roman Baths and Pump Room, and even soak in the Thermae Bath Spa.
See the Bath Abbey and the Royal Crescent as well.
Glastonbury See the Tor and the Abbey
Cheddar Gorge Explore the caves, go on bat patrol.
Exmoor National Park Enjoy the peace of deep valleys, sparkling rivers and high sea cliffs, maybe even spot
some wild red deer.
Wookey Hole Caves Visit great caves and see the home of the infamous Witch of Wookey.
See Wells Cathedral Magnificent cathedral dating back to 12th century and built in English Gothic style.
Dorset

Uncover fossils and prehistoric remains Explore the Jurassic Coast, with steep white cliffs and stunning
countryside hiding historic gems.

Explore historic Dorset village


Drive across the sweeping countryside See thatched villages, ancient sites and magnificent coastline.
Wiltshire

Visit Stonehenge, Amesbury This prehistoric monument surrounded by the remains of domestic and ceremonial buildings, is a World Heritage Site.
See 800 years of history Visit beautiful Salisbury Cathedral and see the tallest spire in Britain.
Bowood House and Gardens, Calne See the magnificent 18th century house complete with paintings and art
works, and fantastic landscaped garden.
Devon

Visit Dartmoor National Park Walk, hike or camp in this wild, craggy landscape.
Catch a wave Go surfing at Croyde or Lynmouth.
Discover sea faring history Explore Plymouth, where the historic Mayflower first departed, as well as the stunning natural harbour and surrounding wild moor lands.
Cornwall

Visit the Eden Project See the giant biomes (greenhouses) and experience rainforest, desert and temperate climates in the one area.

Discover seaside villages Fishing ports, whitewashed houses, sweeping bays and granite breakwaters.
St Michaels Mount Visit the castle and church on this iconic island, which is only accessible by foot at low tide,
or by boat at high tide.

Have a day at the beach With over 320 miles of magnificent coastline, with sandy beaches and great scenery,
youre sure to find a great spot to spend the day.
Isle of Scilly

Take a boat tour around the island archipelago Visit Tresco Abbey Garden at Tresco, The Halangy Down Ancient Bronze Age Village or the Isles of Scilly Museum on St Marys.

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14

Self Drive Tours around


Southwest England
The Jurassic Coast
Discover all the wild beauty and majesty of the Jurassic Coast, as well as uncover some hidden prehistoric gems along the way. Begin this tour in the town of
Exmouth and follow the South West Coast Path which is a national trail to the
town of Bournemouth. Along the way youll be able to stop to search for fossils
from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Visitors are permitted to collect fossils that have washed out of the cliffs and bluffs, and the areas around
Lyme Regis and Charmouth are recommended due to the high level of erosion.
Or if you prefer the less inquisitive trip, why not just sit back and enjoy the ride,
take in the majestic scenery, the white cliffs and the picturesque views along
the way!

Durdle Door, Jurassic Coast

London to Bristol
Many city dwellers follow this route
to escape the trappings of London
and unwind by the seaside, while enjoying the picturesque scenery along
the way. Take the M4 out of London
and head to Reading on the confluence of the River Thames and the River Kent, which is home to two universities, the Abbey Ruins and the Forbury Gardens, plus great pubs and restaurants. Follow the A33 to Basingstoke,
then onto the A303 along to Amesbury. This is the home of world famous Stonehenge, so stop for an hour or two
and explore the surrounding countryside.
Back on the road, drive past lush countryside on the A36, then north into Bath. Explore the magnificent Roman
Baths, have lunch in a quaint English pub, see the Bath Abbey or just stroll the medieval streets with historic terraces and wonderful shops. Only a short half hour drive north west is the vibrant city of Bristol. Drive over the
Clifton Suspension Bridge, explore the Avon Gorge, explore the dynamic harborside or stroll through Old Bristol.

Stonehenge, Amesbury

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15

East England
The lush rural landscape of Eastern England consists of the regions of Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire,
Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. This region lies to the northeast of London, and maintains an unspoiled
atmosphere among its sprawling countryside and waterways. East Anglia is home to medieval villages, quaint
hamlets, university towns and Edwardian seaside resorts, as well as sparkling rivers and fens, rich farmland and
rolling hills. Discover some of the ancient ruins, soaring spires in magnificent cathedrals and market towns in
East England, all at your own pace!

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

February:

Cambridgeshire

Snowdrop Season, Cambridge - Spectacular


spring flowers at Anglesey Abbey
May:
Stilton Cheese Rolling, Cambridge Fun day held
in historic town of Stilton
Cambridge Beer Festival, Cambridge
June:
Strawberry Fair, Cambridge Festival marking
the beginning of summer
July:
Cambridge Shakespeare Festival Outdoor
performance of famous Shakespeare plays in
Cambridge
Big Day out, Cambridge Outdoor music festival
August:
Jazz and Brass in the Park, Cambridge Jazz and
brass bands play at outdoor venues.
Fenland Country Fair, Stow-Cum-Quy village,
Cambridge
September:
Chariots of Fire Race, Cambridge
November:
Cambridge Music Festival, Cambridge

Visit the historic colleges See Kings College and Kings


Chapel, St Johns College, Queens College and Trinity College, as well as their surrounding gardens in Cambridge.
Explore the Sedgwick Museum One of the oldest of the
university museums.
Walk along the Backs The gardens on the river Cam behind the colleges.
Rowing Take up a punt on the river Cam.
Norfolk

Visit Norwich See Norwich Cathedral, Dragon Hall and


Norwich Castle.

Explore The Broads, Norfolk Visit the UKs largest protected wetlands.

Head to Great Yarmouth This is one of Englands most


popular seaside resorts, with nice beaches, entertainment
and attractions .
Essex

Visit Colchester This is Britains oldest town, see Colchester Castle, the Zoo and Carters Vineyard.
Suffolk

Explore Ipswich Unwind in green open spaces, visit the


Christchurch Mansion and the Victorian wet dock with
waterfront restaurants and bars.
Drive through the Stour Valley Discover pretty villages
and stunning rural scenery.
Visit Bury St Edmunds See the beautiful Georgian
architecture, ancient ruins and powerful history.
Hertfordshire
St Albans Explore the Roman Wall, St Albans Cathedral,
Hatfield House and the medieval clock tower in this beautiful Georgian town.

Trinity College, Cambridge

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Self Drive Tours around East England


Cambridge to Ipswich
This route takes in the beautiful countryside and elegant towns of
Eastern England. After youve seen the universities and cathedrals,
parks and rivers of Cambridge, head east on the A11 to Newmarket. This small market town is a great spot for equine enthusiasts,
as its the home to the National Horseracing Museum, the National
Stud and is the head quarters of the British Jockey club. Driving
further on eastward youll come across Bury St Edmund with the
lovely Abbey Gardens and St Edmundsbury Cathedral that are
worth visiting.
Follow the A14 through Woolpit and Stowmarket until you reach
Ipswich. Here you can enjoy the waterfront marinas, a bustling
city centre, twelve medieval churches and lovely green open spaces.

Norwich and The Broads


See the best of Norfolk in this driving route. Begin in Cromer, where you can
visit Sheringham Park, and explore the landscaped gardens and fantastic view
to the coastline. See Felbrigg Hall, Garden and Park and Aylsham, home to
Blicking Hall. Follow the B1354 through Hortead and Hoveton, which will take
you on to The Broads.
The Broads are the UKs largest inland wetlands. You can see some of Englands
most rare and spectacular flora and fauna that make their home in the waterways, marshes and estuaries in the Broads. Visit the floating wildlife centre at
NWT Ranworth Broad, plus explore the trails along the reed beds and woodlands, and the boardwalk at Cockshoot Broad to see beautiful water lily beds.

The Broads, Norfolk

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The East Midlands


The East Midlands is one of the regions of England and consists of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Northampton, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. With the rich historic past of each culturally diverse community, no
two places in the East Midlands will ever be the same. Whether you want to experience the history of the region
or the outdoors, the East Midlands offers a great variety of activities to suit everyone.

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

February:

Derbyshire

Chinese New Year celebrations.

Visit Bolsover Castle - Take a tour of one of the most beautiful castles in England.

May:

Spring Craft Fair, Derbyshire.


Nottingham Arboretum Festival.
June:

Oakham Festival, Rutland.


September:

Canal and Floral Art Exhibition, Northampton.


November:

Bonfire Night featuring fireworks displays,


Nottingham.

Visit the Derby Museum and Art Gallery.


Take the family to the Matlock Farm Park - With plenty of
activities to keep the kids busy and ample places for the
adults to relax its a great day out for all.
Leicestershire

Explore the National Space Centre - A great day out for the
kids and adults alike and features real rockets and interactive activities.
Visit the Art Dejardin Sculpture Garden - Featuring a
showcase of unique contemporary art.

Explore the Carillon and War Memorial Museum.


Rutland

Visit the Green Mountain Rock Climbing Centre - For a day


of fun.

Go fishing - Rutland offers some of the best fishing in the


region.

Visit the Rutland Country Museum - Provides visitors with


the perfect introduction to the county.
Northampton

Visit the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery.


Explore the Smith College Botanic Garden - Featuring ten
different types of gardens as well as a greenhouse.

Indulge yourself at the Brooks and Butterfield Day Spa.


Nottinghamshire

Visit the Nottingham Castle - Take a tour and learn about


the castles colourful history.
Experience the outdoors - The County offers over 42
sports such as golf, fishing and water sports.
Be entertained at the Broadway Media Centre - Dedicated
to independent and world films; a great outing for film lovers.

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Self Drive Tours around East Midlands


Matlock Bath to Northampton

River Derwent

Start this trip with a tour around Matlock Bath that is built
along the River Derwent in Derbyshire. It was originally
developed as a spa town back in the 1800s, and today is
home to the self contained park called Heights of Abraham. The sheer cliff of High Tor complete with cable car,
and many other museums and amusements. Head south to
the town of Derby, and enjoy the passing scenery of wild
moors, remote farms and tiny villages. In Derby you can
visit the Derby Cathedral or visit the famous Royal Crown
Derby china factory.
If youre pressed for time you can take the M1 south straight through to Northampton,
but if you want to see some more beautiful English countryside, take the A6 down
through Loughborough toward Leicester, and on through Great Glen, Market
Harborough, and onto the A508 down to Northampton. Along the way youll see
historic towns, stately homes and picturesque scenery.

Best of the Parks

The Peak District

Begin this tour in the township of Nottingham, where


you can see Nottingham Castle, Wollaton Hall and Ye
Ole Trip to Jerusalem that claims to be the oldest pub
in Britain. Drive 30 minutes out of town into the
Sherwood Forest Country Park, the home of the
legendary Robin Hood.
From here head north on the A60 through Ravenshead to the town of Mansfield, where you can visit
the Palace Theatre that was built in 1910, and also
see St Johns, St Marks, St Peter and St Pauls churches. Drive north-west on the A617 through the borough of Chesterfield, home to fantastic markets and
the twisted spire on the Church of St Mary. From
Chesterfield, drive on west on Baslow Road which
will take you through to the Peak District National
Park. This was the first national park in the British
Isle and is the second most visited national park in
the world. Here you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain-biking and horse riding, or just enjoy the
scenery and the peaceful countryside.

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19

The West Midlands


The West Midlands creates a tantalizing scene of tranquil countryside in the Malvern Hills and parts of the National Forest, with a contrast of its multicultural conurbation including one of the biggest cities in the UK, Birmingham. This impressive region is formed from parts of Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, West
Midlands County, Shropshire and Staffordshire. Located in central England it is positioned north-west of London
which is easily accessible on the M40, M1 or the M6 Motorway, and is also south of Manchester making it a great
place to start your UK adventures in your car rental. West Midlands has an intriguing charisma filled with the romantic Shakespeare,

Best Things to See & Do

Whats On

Herefordshire:

January:

Historic Rally, Coventry Annual

Hereford Cathedral - A beautiful church which holds one of the most


famous treasures, the Mappa Mundi, which is a mediaeval map of the
world from the 13th century.
A historical Drive - Take a drive through the Black and White Village
Trail which follows through several old English Villages.
Croft Castle - A majestic stone castle filled with a great historical
significance.
Worcestershire:
Safari & Leisure Park - Feel like youve stepped into Africa with the
magnificent display of exotic animals. They also offer a 4 mile drive
which runs through the park.
Croome Park - An architectural mansion landscaped in a magical country park.
Malvern Hills - An enchanting landscape of mountain ranges and curious wildlife.
Warwickshire:
Rowing Take a punt on Oxford Canal.
Warwick Castle - A medieval castle.
Shropshire:
Stokesay Castle - A very romantic 13th Century fortified manor house.
Ironbridge Gorge Museums - A nine award winning museum and sites
which tells the story of the worlds first iron bridge.
Hawkstone Historic Park - A mysterious park with caves, cliffs and follies.
Wroxeter Roman Vineyard - A beautiful vineyard producing red, white
and sparking wines.
Staffordshire:
Peak District National Park - Britains first national park brings people
from all over the world to enjoy a tranquil or adventurous experience
with climbing, caving, hiking, cycling and more.
Trentham Estate - Offers a great day out with stunning gardens, a giant
observation wheel and shopping villages. Theres even the monkey forest which is a unique experience as you can walk alongside the Barbary
Macaques roaming free.
Lichfield Cathedral - An 800 year old Cathedral with a fascinating history.
Drayton Manor Theme Park, Waterworld, Tamworth SnowDome Packed with a wide range of rides which features some of the biggest,
wettest and scariest rides.

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vintage motor show

The Wassail, Coventry Traditional


Morris dancing to promote a good
harvest in the Ryton Organic Gardens
February:

Spring Fair, Birmingham Early Feb

March:

St Patricks Day Parade: (Sunday


before St Patricks Day)

April:

St George Day, Coventry April 23


medieval festival and parades
The Complete Works, Sratford Upon
Avon Major Shakespeare event

May:

Concertos, Birmingham Symphony


Hall
Jousting at Warwick Castle, Coventry Medieval festival

June:

DFS Classic International Womens


Tennis, Birmingham
Strawberry Fair, Coventry Summer
festival with concerts and parades

July:

International Jazz Festival,


Birmingham

August:

Fireworks Fantasia, Birmingham

September:

Art Fest, Birmingham


Gardeners Weekend, Birmingham
Mid Sept at Kings Heath Park
Heritage Open Week, Coventry
Chance to see inside historic houses
that arent normally open to the
public.

December:

Christmas Markets Festive markets


held across the West Midlands

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Self Drive Tours around


The West Midlands
Stoke-On-Trent to Ludlow
Explore the western scenery on this route that takes
you from Stoke-On-Trent to the lovely town of Ludlow. Start in the town of Stoke-On-Trent, where you
can visit the Wedgewood Visitors centre and see
where some of the worlds best fine bone china is produced.
Head south west to the pretty Medieval town of
Shrewsbury, with narrow cobbled streets, and home
to the Abbey that was built in 1083. Also explore the
Castle and Regimental Museum and the Wroxter Roman Vineyard. Drive south on the A49 to the town of
Ludlow. This lively, unspoilt market town is perched
on a cliff above the River Teme, and has wonderful
churches, a stunning castle and great Georgian architecture. Ludlow is also reputed to have some of the
best regional cuisine and festivals in England.

Shrewbury

Coventry to Worcester
This country route takes you through some of the loveliest
countryside in the West Midlands. Begin the tour in the town
of Coventry. Here youll find plenty of museums and galleries, great restaurants and pubs plus the Coventry Cathedral.
Drive south on the A46 through Warwick, where you can see
the magnificent Warwick Castle surrounded by beautiful
manicured gardens.
From Warwick, head south west to the city of Stratford-uponAvon, which is the birthplace of Shakespeare and home to
Anne Hathaways cottage. You can also explore the lovely city's fine historic houses and glorious gardens,
visit the Royal Shakespeare Company or perhaps cruise the Avon River by row boat.
Drive west through magnificent countryside through the towns of Oversley Green, Kington and Churchill
until you come to Worcester. This beautiful town offers a host of historical attractions to see, including
Worcester Cathedral and the Royal Worcester Porcelain, as well as great shopping, boat trips and riverside
walks.

Stratford-upon-Avon

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Northwest England
The Northwest encompasses Liverpool and Manchester and is one of the most popular destinations to
visit in England. The Northwest boasts world class historical attractions, excellent shopping facilities,
arts and culture and spectacular coasts and countryside. Liverpool and Manchester are also home to a
diverse variety of fantastic indoor and outdoor events which are sure to keep you entertained all
throughout the year.

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

March:

Liverpool

March through to August, Lakes Alive, Crow Park.


July:
Jazz Festival in Manchester.
August:
The Mathew Street Music Festival, Liverpool.
September:
BBC wildlife photographer of the year exhibition,
Liverpool.
Illuminations Visit the seaside town of Blackpool
with an amazing free light show for one month
only.
October:
Manchester Food and Drink Festival.
Manchester Comedy Festival.
December:
Christmas markets in Manchester.
Liverpool Santa Dash.

Visit the Liverpool Cathedral - The largest Anglican Church


in Britain.

Spend the day at the Haydock Park Racecourse - A 30 minute drive out of the city and the most visited racecourse
in the country.
Take a Beatle Tour - A bus tour which takes you around to
all the Beatles city areas.
Explore the McCartney Home - The childhood home of
Beatles Star Paul McCartney has been maintained by the
National Trust and is available for public tours.
Visit the World Museum Liverpool - A popular tourist
attraction which features numerous historical artifacts of
Liverpool.
Manchester

Shop till you drop - No trip to Manchester is complete


without a spot of shopping. Visit the Trafford Centre, the
Lowry Outlet Mall to grab a bargain or the Orient to
experience food from all over the world.
Experience arts and architecture - For some of the best visual and performing arts head to The Quays or for a more
traditional experience, visit the Manchester Art Gallery.

Take the Manchester City Football Club Stadium Tour.


Visit the Imperial War Museum North Manchester.

Liverpool

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Self Drive Tours around


Northwest England
Liverpool to Blackpool
This tour begins in the buzzing city of Liverpool. See
where the Beatles originated, tour the famous Liverpool
Football Club, enjoy the superb restaurants, clubs, museums and galleries and see why Liverpool was voted The
European City of Culture in 2008.
Drive north to the coastal town of Crosby and along the
A565 to Southport. Explore Lord Street, play a round of
golf or just enjoy the great views and relaxed atmosphere
of this lovely seaside town. Drive northwest along the
A69 to Preston, a beautiful town with a historical and cultural core, and where you can see the city museum, the
Minster Church and the UKs National Football Museum.
From Preston, head west to the resort town of Blackpool,
and here you should visit the Blackpool Tower and Circus,
Sandcastle Waterworld, and walk along at least one of its
three piers and Pleasure Beach.
Preston Minster, Preston

Lancaster to Carlisle
Start this tour in Lancaster where you can see the Lancaster Castle, the
Maritime Museum and Williamson Park. Drive north to Appleby, which is
home to 11th century Appleby Castle on a beautiful riverside and Conservation Center. A little further north youll come to Temple Sowerby, where
youll be able to see the Acorn Bank Garden and Water Mill.
The township of Penrith is further on the road, which is home to the ruins
of Brougham Castle that was originally built in 1092. The town of Carlisle is
the final stop on this route. In Carlisle you can visit Carlisle Castle, the Carlisle Cathedral and walk along stretches of Hadrians wall.

Carlisle

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Yorkshire & Humbershire


Yorkshire and Humberside are one of the nine government office regions of England and one of the premier tourist destinations to visit. Whether youre looking to spend the weekend or the month, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire
are chockfull with activities and events to keep you entertained. If youre after a cultural experience, the hundreds of museums and galleries will not disappoint and if youd rather escape the city for the weekend, the picturesque countryside will be sure to delight.

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

January:

Yorkshire

Harrogate Pavilions Winter Antiques and Fine Art


Fair, Yorkshire.
February:
Continental Market, Parliament Street, Yorkshire.
April:
Easter Fun Day, Newby Hall, Yorkshire.
Harrogate Spring Flower Show, Yorkshire.
May:
Classic Car and Motorcycle Show, Yorkshire.
Flower Parade, Lincolnshire.
September:
Country Food and Craft show, Yorkshire.
November:
Bonfire and Fireworks Spectacular, Lincolnshire
Showground.

Go on a ghost tour of York - The tour takes you to many


supposedly haunted locations in the city.
Visit the York Minster - Spectacular Church of England
Cathedral which dates back to the 14th century.

Spend the day at the Harrogate Turkish Baths and Health


Spa.
Explore the York Castle Museum - Living history museum
of everyday life during Victorian and Edwardian England.
Tee off at the Ganton Golf Club.

Visit the Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.


Lincolnshire

Explore the Lincoln Castle - This medieval fortress was


built by William I and is home to one of the only surviving
Magna Carta signed by King John.
Have a family day out - Visit the Hardys Animal Farm.
Tour the Lincoln Christmas Market - Enjoy the festive spirit
and get in some last minute Christmas shopping.
Have some fun at Fantasy Island - A family amusement
park located in Ingoldmells near Skegness.
Relax at Kinema in the Woods - A unique opportunity to
watch a movie and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings simultaneously.

Yorkshire country road

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Self Drive Tours around


Yorkshire & Humbershire
York to Whitby
This is one of Englands most interesting regions, and perfectly suited for a
self-drive holiday. Begin this tour in the ancient walled town of York, where
you can explore the myriad of narrow streets, magnificent Gothic cathedral,
great museums, restaurants and pubs. Drive north to the small town of
Thirsk, with lovely cobbled squares and pretty streets. Head east along the
A170 through the beautiful Yorkshire countryside through Pickering and
then onto the seaside town of Scarborough. Here there are white sand bays,
lovely Edwardian buildings and amusement arcades.
From Scarborough drive north, following the coast through the North Yorkshire Moors and along to the charming town of Whitby. This is one of Northern Englands most beautiful coastal resort towns, with an old abbey overlooking the picturesque harbour, narrow streets with quaint shops, traditional pubs and restaurants, and its reputed to have the best fish and chips
in England!

Whitby

Leeds to Haworth
Start this tour with a day or two in the city of Leeds, shopping
in fantastic retail outlets, eating in chic and funky restaurants
and enjoying the glamorous urban buzz, as well as seeing the
Leeds Castle and the Town Hall. From Leeds head west to the
city of Bradford, home to the Saltaire, a 19th century industrial town within the city of Bradford.
From Bradford get ready to explore the surrounding Bronte country. Head
towards the township of Haworth and then south to the university town of
Hebden Bridge, and nearby Heptonstall, where the church of St Thomas is
nestled in quiet streets and centuries old cottages. Make Haworth your base
so you can explore the surrounding countryside, and see for yourself the
beauty of which the Bronte sisters wrote in their famous novels.

Leeds Castle

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Northeast England
The Northeast is one of the nine official regions of England and encompasses Northumberland, County Durham,
Tyne & Wear and the Tees Valley. The northeast is a diverse and unique region which offers something for
everyone.

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

April:

Northumberland

The Wear Valley Food Festival, Durham.


EAT! Food festival, Tyne and Wear.
June:

Wylam Summer Fair, Tyne and Wear.


July:

Brass-Durham International Festival.


August:
Saltburns Annual Art Exhibition, Tees Valley.
September:
The Durham Regatta.
October:
Sugar and Spice Festival, Tyne and Wear.

Visit Hadrians Walls - A world famous attraction which


was once occupied by soldiers from the Roman Empire
Explore the Holy island of Lindisfarne - A wildlife haven
and a place of pilgrimage.
Visit the spectacular Warkworth Castle.
County Durham
Visit the Cathedral and the Castle - A world heritage site
and one of the most exquisite examples of Romanesque
architecture.
Experience the outdoors - Visit the High Force waterfall,
explore the heritage coast or take a walk along the banks
of the River Wear.
Tour the Escomb Saxon Church - A gem of Durham and
over 1300 years old.
Tyne & Wear

Visit the Angel of the North - An exquisite statue that people come from all over the world to see.

Explore the Baltic Centre of Contemporary Art - An


international centre for contemporary art.
Tour the Belsay Hall and Gardens - Two historic towers
linked by a quaint garden sprawled over more than 30
acres of landscaped grounds.
Tees Valley

Spend the day at the Saltholme Wildlife Reserve and


Discovery Park .
Explore the outdoors - Try surfing lessons, go on a walking
or cycling tour of the city or have a picnic in one of the
many town parks and gardens.
Entertain the kids - Children and adults alike will love the
Hartlepools Maritime Experience, Captain Cooks Birthplace Museum or the Preston Hall Museum.

Hadrians Wall, Northumberland

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Self Drive Tours around


Northeast England
Tees Valley
Explore the beautiful Tees Valley and the birthplace of Captain James Cook. Begin this tour at Middlesbrough, and see
the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, then skip over to
Stockton-On-Tees to step aboard a full size replica of his ship,
the Endeavour.
Drive west on the A66 through Elton and Sadberge and onto
the town of Darlington, home of the Darlington Railway Museum where you can see the first passenger engine Locomotion
No. 1. Back in the car, keep driving west along the A67
through Gainford and Winston and onto Barnard Castle. This
magnificent old castle was built
in the 12th century by Bernard de
Balliol, and is perched on a large
rock above the River Tees, close
by to an attractive market town.

River Tees

Essential Northeast Britain Tour


Begin this tour in the town of Durham, where you must visit the spectacular 1,000 year old Durham Cathedral
and climb the 300 steps of the main tower for unsurpassed view of the surrounding county. See Durham Castle
and Crook Hall, and walk the lovely streets of the old town. From here you can take the more rural route along
the A691 through to Consett and on to Hexham, or you can head north from Durham on the A1 up to Newcastle.
Here you should see the Tyne Bridges, the Seven Stories, the remains of the Castle Keep and Segedunum. For a
little more modern culture, do some shopping in the Central Arcade, visit great art galleries and top restaurants
or even catch Newcastle United play at St James Park.
Take in the rural countryside as you head to historic market
town of Hexham. From here you can drive west along the
A69 to Hadrians Wall. This is a World Heritage Site that
stretches over 80 miles of Northumberland on the border
with Scotland. Youll also be able to see excavated Roman
forts at Vindolanda, Chesters and Houseteads.

Durham Cathedral and Castle

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Scotland
The country of Scotland forms part of the United Kingdom and occupies the northern third of the island of Greater Britain. Its capital city is Edinburgh which also doubles as one of Europes largest financial districts. Although
Scotland is picturesquely beautiful all year round, the best time to visit is in August. The annual festivals and
events are in full swing and youll never run short of things to keep you busy.

Best Things to See & Do

Whats On

Take a tour of the Edinburgh Castle - A thousand year old January:


castle which houses an assortment of national and miliHogman, across Scotland New Years Eve Festivitary artifacts.
ties
Visit the Kelingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow April:
Scotlands most visited tourist site and home to a huge
International Science Festival, Edinburgh Held
national history museum and impressive art gallery.
over two weeks
Tour the city - Take a ride on an Edinburgh City Hop-on
Baltane Fire Festival, Calton Hill, Edinburgh
Hop off tour.

May:

Go Nessie Hunting - The first sighting of the Loch Ness

Perth Festival.
Monster was in 1871 and with another famous encounter
Orkney Folk Festival, Edinburgh
in 1961, visitors from the world are fascinated by
Spirit of Speyside Whiskey festival, Edinburgh
Nessie.
Four days of whiskey tastings and distillery tours
Play a game of golf- If you love golf, you will love ScotJune:
land. There are hundreds of spectacular courses includFlavor of Shetland
ing the famous Old Course at St Andrews.
Riding of the Marches, across Scotland Parades,
horse riding displays
West End Festival, across Scotland Two week
party with music and arts
August:
Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival
Edinburgh International Festival
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Edinburgh Comedy Festival
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
September:
Linlithgow Folk Festival.
October:
The Doric Festival.

Edinburgh Castle

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Self Drive Tours around Scotland


Tour the Valley of the Tweed
Follow the beautiful River Tweed on this delightful drive, stopping at pretty
villages along the way. Begin in the town of Kelso which has a lovely cobbled
square surrounded by Georgian buildings and a great atmosphere. Head west
through Maxton and Newstead to Melrose. This lovely town is at the junction of
three Eildon Hills that are covered with heather and perfect for long walks, and
is home to the Melrose Abbey and Abbotsford House.
Follow the River Tweed through the villages of Selkirk, Walkerburn and Kirkburn to the town of Peebles. This attractive and bustling town lies at the confluence of three rivers amongst rolling wooding hills, and at its center has
lovely town
squares and
plenty of
historic
monuments to
keep you busy.

Kelso Abbey

Experience the Trussochs


Tour the wonderful Trossachs and see for yourself
why Queen Victoria called the area lovely back in
1869. The Trossachs are located at the narrowest
point of the mainland just north of Glasgow, while
the whole area of Callander is a maze of rivers,
lochs, waterfalls and mountains.
Begin the tour of this part of the Trossachs in Callander and follow the road along through Coilangtogle, past
Loch Venachar and Lenderick. Continue on past Loch Achray and down to Aberfoyle. Follow the B829 through
Milton, taking the view of Loch Ard, Loch Chon and Loch Arklet through to Inversnaid. This road will wind past
incredible natural and wild natural environments, pristine waters and spectacular scenery, and offers plenty of
activities from hiking, cycling and mountain biking and just enjoying the great outdoors.

Loch Rannoch

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Wales
Wales is located in the west coast of Mainland Britain, and bordered on the east with England. Cardiff is located
in the south of Wales and is the capital, largest and most popular city of Wales. Visitors are attracted to the beautiful natural scenery, its distinct culture and wealth of history and architecture. Cardiff is known for its lively and
diverse atmosphere and whilst the city boasts a vibrant nightlife, exciting events and a wealth of things to see
and do, the city has managed to retain its small town vibe.

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

July:

Visit the Cardiff Castle - Take a guided tour through 2,000

Cardiff Castle Open Air Theatre


Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival.
August:
Admiral Cardiff Big Weekend.
Classic Car Rally.
Frocester Beer Festival.
September:
The Worlds Greatest Elvis Tribute Artist Concert.
Cider and Beer Festival.
October:
31st, Halloween at Cardiff Castle.

years of history.

Tour the National History Museum, St. Fagans - Commonly referred to as the Museum of Welsh life due to its
comprehensive collection of historical artifacts.
Spend the day at Cardiff Bay - Dine at one of the many
restaurants or pubs, take a stroll along the boardwalk, visit
the museums or take a look at the shops.
Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery - Featuring a
spectacular collection of Impressionist and
Post- Impressionist art.
Tour Techniquest - A science museum packed with hands
on exhibits and exciting things to do.
Visit the Millennium Sports Stadium - One of the UKs best
and biggest sporting stadiums.
Walk around the Gower Peninsular Sandy beaches,
limestone cliffs and easy walking trails
Brecon Beacons National Park See all the natural color
and splendor on rolling hills and grassy moors.
Visit the resort town of Llandudno Relax by the seaside
or take on some extreme sports in the twin mountains, the
Great Orme and Little Orme.

Cardiff Castle

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Self Drive Tours around Wales


Snowdonia
Drive along the Llanberis Pass in Snowdonia, an area of
rugged natural beauty with mountain ranges carved by
the twin lakes of Llyn Padarn and Llyb Peris. Drive from
the town of Caemarfon along the A4086 which will take
you through Pont Rug and Llanberis. Here youll see
the remains of historic Dolbadarn Castle. You will pass
Pentre Castell and Nant Peris into the park. There are
plenty of outdoor activities, particularly hiking and
rock climbing, as well as enjoying the stark and roughhewn mountains and valleys.

Snowdonia

The Horseshoe Pass


Travel through one of Wales most popular natural attractions along the Horseshoe Pass. This drive follows the A542 from Ruthin to Llangollen through the
Clwydian range. Begin the tour in Ruffin, which is a small but attractive little
town set in the Vale of Cwlyd and has plenty of interesting historical sites to
keep you busy. Head south on the A542 along the Horseshoe Pass, enjoying
the views with rolling mists and unique scenery, taking care with the climb and
the hairpin bends.
The Horseshoe Pass will take you on to the town of Llangollen, set in the vale of
Llangollen on the River Dee. In this lovely town theres plenty of restaurants
and cafes to choose from, plus some great sights including the ruined castle of
Dinas Bran and the Pontcysyllte aquaduct.

Llangollen

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Northern Ireland
Be welcomed into Northern Ireland by some of the most charming and friendly people in the world. Northern Ireland consists of the counties of Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone. Discover the delights of Northern Ireland with its unique blend of ancient heritage, unspoiled landscapes and cosmopolitan cities. From the famous Giants Causeway, the birthplace of the Titanic, the rivers, loughs and majestic coastlines
that decorate the landscape, to the small, quaint villages and cosy pubs there is so much in Northern Ireland to
see and do, for the young and the young-at-heart.

Whats On

Best Things to See & Do

May:

Belfast City St Annes Cathedral, Belfast City Hall, Belfast

Carnival of Colors, St Columbs Park, Co. Derry.


July:
Lady of the Lake Festival, Co Fermanagh.
August:
Hillsborough International Oyster Festival, Co
Down.
September:
Appalachian and Bluegrass Music Festival, Co.
Tyrone.

Castle, St George Market, Take the Titanic Boat Tour or wonder through the Belfast Botanic Gardens.
The Giants Causeway, Co. Antrim One of Northern
Irelands most famous landmarks, the Giants Causeway is
made up of thousands of interlocking basalt columns, the
result of an ancient volcanic eruption.
The Walled City of Derry, Co. Londonderry Situated on the
banks of the River Foyle, Derry is the only fully walled city in
Ireland.
Ulster American Folk Park, Co. Tyrone In open air museum
illustrating the story of emigration from Ulster to the US during the 18th & 19th centuries.
Drive the Causeway Coastal Route, Co. Antrim Drive along
one of the worlds most spectacular and scenic roads, and marvel and the wonder of nature.
Tour the Lakelands, Co. Fermanagh The Lakelands are a haven for both wildlife and sports enthusiasts, offering spectacular scenery & woodlands.
Discover the Mourne Mountains, Co. Down Believed to be
the inspiration behind CS Lewis Chronicles of Narnia,
Majestic mountains, natural beauty and native wildlife.
Round of Golf, Co.s Antrim & Down Pack the golf clubs and
take a swing on such famous fairways as Royal Portrush,
Co. Antrim and Royal County Down, Co. Down.
Visit the Bushmills Distillery, Co. Antrim Built in 1608, this is
Irelands oldest operating distillery.

Giants Causeway, Co. Antrim

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Self Drive Tours around N. Ireland


The Inishowen, Co. Derry
Discover the beauty and charm of the northern most peninsular in Ireland. Begin
your tour at Buncrana with its long sandy beach and ruins of Buncrana Castle that
dates back to the 16th century as well as Doherty Castle. Head north along the
R238 to Mamore Gap and take in the magnificent view of the steep, northerly
coastline, and onto the seaside town of Dunaff. Here you can see the Fort Dunree
Military Museum that overlooks Lough Swilly, as well as the Old Fort Hospital.
Driving east, youll see fantastic beaches and stunning scenery as you travel
through Clonmany and Ballyliffin, where there is a unique outdoor museum showcasing life in the area from 1840-1970.
Further on the R238 youll hit Carndonagh with great ancient monuments, including the 10 arch stone bridge that
cresses Trawbrega Bay in Malin. Stand on Irelands most
northerly point at Malin Head, and further east youll find
the Wee House of Malin, a hermits rock cell cut into a cliff
beside a cottage ruin. Drive further south east to the resort
The Inishowen, Derry
village of Culdaff, and enjoy the seascape as you head
along down to Greencastle, home to the Inishowen Maritime Museum and Planetarium. Follow the R241 onto Moville, then through Redcastle,
Muff and down to the walled city of Londonderry.

The Causeway Coastal Route:


This is rated as one of the top 5 scenic drives in the world, running from Belfast Lough to Londonderry with an
incredible mosaic of fishing villages, quiet beaches, rugged coastlines, mountains and magnificent scenery.
Leave Belfast and join the Causeway Coastal Route at Newtownabbey. Enjoy the view of Belfast Lough to the
right as you head further west toward the seaside town of Carrickfergus, which is home to the well-preserved
12th century Norman castle. Drive on through Kilroot and to Larne, the gateway to the beautiful Glens of Antrim, and follow the Antrim Coast Road where you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Take time to explore
any of the nine glens, particularly Glenarm with its fabulous walled garden and beautiful harbour.
Drive on through to the lovely town of Cushendon and Torr Head, along to Ballintoy where you can walk across
the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge spanning a 24 metre chasm. If you veer inland you can visit the worlds oldest
licensed distillery in the village of Bushmills. From there you can head back to the coast to the World Heritage
listed site of the Giants Causeway, which are 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that, according to folklore was created by
legendary giant Finn McCool as a causeway to Scotland.
See the romantic ruins of Dunluce Castle near Bushmills, and
drive on to Portrush and Portstewart, lively seaside resorts,
then to the beautiful Bann Valley and market town of Ballymoney. Visit Mussenden Temple along by Castlerock towards Limavady, then take a walk on the remote beaches at Benone or
Downhill. You can then travel on through the lovely Roe Valley, through Limavady and on to Londonderry, which is the
only completely walled city in the British Isles.

Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy

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Getting into the UK


UK Airport Information

England
Heathrow
24 km west of Central London
Ph: +44 20 7222 1234
www.tfl.gov.uk

Stansted
48km northeast of central London
Ph: +44 844 335 1803
www.stanstedairport.com

Manchester
17km southwest of Manchester city
Ph: +44 8712 710 711
www.manchesterairport.co.uk

Gatwick
45km south of central London
Ph: +44 845 850 1530
www.gatwickairport.com

Luton
51km northeast of London
Ph: +44 1582 40510
www.london-luton.co.uk

Newcastle
10km northwest of Newcastle city
Ph: +44 871 882 1121
www.newcastleairport.com

London City Airport


10km east of the city of London
Ph: +44 20 7646 0088
www.londoncityairport.com

Birmingham
13km southeast of Birmingham
city
Ph: +44 844 576 6000

Northern Ireland Scotland

Wales
Cardiff
19km southwest of Cardiff city
Ph: +44 1 446 711 111
www.cwlfly.com

Belfast
29km northwest of Belfast city
Ph: +44 28 9448 4848
www.belfastairport.com

Edinburgh
12km west of the city centre
Ph: +44 844 481 8989
www.edinburghairport.com

Aberdeen
11km northwest of Aberdeen city
Ph: +44 844 481 6666
www.aberdeenairport.com

Belfast City Airport


Located in Belfast Harbour
Ph: +44 28 9093 9093
www.belfastcityairport.com

Glasgow
14km west of Glasgow city
Ph: +44 844 481 5555
www.glasgowairport.com

Inverness
14km east of Inverness city
Ph: +44 1667 464 000
www.invernessairport.com

UK Ferry Port Information


Auto Europe can organize all your ferry needs
between mainland UK and the island of Ireland with
Stenna Line and Irish Ferries. For more information, go
to www.autoeurope.com
Main England Ports:
Dover: www.doverport.co.uk
Harwich: www.harwich.co.uk
Holyhead: www.holyheadport.com
Main Wales Ports:
Fishguard and Holyhead:
www.holyhead.com
Pembroke: www.mhpa.co.uk
Northern Ireland Port:
Main Scotland Ports:
Aberdeen: www.aberdeen-harbour.co.uk
Cairnryan: www.cairnryanportdevelopment.co.uk
Lerwick: www.lerwick-harbour.co.uk
Oban, Rosyth and Stranraer: http://stranraer.ports-guides.com

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34

Accommodation Ideas
Motorhomes
All the convenience of accommodation and transport in one! Rent
a motorhome from Auto Europe. For more information, go to
www.autoeurope.com/motorhomes.cfm
From all levels of style and luxury, the UK has many hotel options
to choose from. Youll be warmly greeted by the friendly people at
the front desk who will make sure your room is to your liking. You
will receive the best information from the local staff about the
closest pub offering local specialties, best shopping spots, family
activities and the best places to enjoy the nightlife.
Castles
Experience the splendor and magnificence of staying in an historic
castle in the UK. Its not every day that you get to wake in the
grandeur of ancient tapestries, stone columns, high vaulted ceilings, spectacular gardens and lakes, right at your doorstep. Live
like a king!
Self Catering
There is self catering accommodation all across the UK suitable for
those that would like to come and go as they please, including self
contained apartments, houses, cottages and caravans.
Bed & Breakfasts
One of the best ways to experience the United Kingdom is to stay
at a Bed & Breakfast. Be welcomed by families that open their
homes to guests, and who will be more than happy to impart their
knowledge of the local areas and customs. The rooms are normally
slightly smaller than guest houses or hotels, but this is possibly the
cheapest and friendliest way to tour the UK. Enjoy a home cooked
breakfast and friendly hospitality.
Guest Houses
Guest houses in the UK are usually larger than B&Bs even though
they are still family run. Most have between 5 and 15 guest rooms.
Often guest houses are purpose built so that the rooms are generally larger and the facilities are more generous than B&Bs. You can
expect to pay about the same as a 3 star hotel but with a more cozy
and comfortable atmosphere.
Farmhouse Holiday
A farmhouse holiday is a great way to meet the locals and is
especially suitable for children. Leave the hustle and bustle of the
big cities and towns behind and enjoy the everyday life on the
farm.
Camping & Caravanning
There are hundreds of caravan and campsites across the UK, with
the majority being open from May to September. Take the opportunity to enjoy the very best of the country and outdoors at its
best.
Youth & Backpacker Hostels
There are over three hundred youth hostels across the UK, which
range from basic accommodation to modern hostels.
University Dorm
Stay in great locations with simple furnishings in relatively cheap
accommodation, in such hallowed halls as Oxford or Cambridge.
This option is usually available over the holiday periods Easter and
Christmas.
Holiday Camps
Holiday camps offer accommodation, food and a huge range of
activities, normally all at an all-inclusive price. This is a great option for families, with activities for children, kids clubs and
babysitting options usually available.

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35

Stay Healthy
Your comprehensive travel insurance will cover any medical costs including medical evacuation. Make sure
that your insurance covers you for the whole time youll be away and be clear on what is not included. In case
of an emergency, go to your nearest hospital for treatment. For non-urgent ailments, go to the local medical
center or NHS walk in center, where you will be cared for but you will be billed for the treatment. Vaccinations are not required for travel to the United Kingdom, but check with your GP before you travel for travel
vaccination updates.
Plan for the continuing care of pre-existing conditions before you leave. Bring your medications in their original and clearly labelled containers with a declaration from your doctor describing your medical conditions
and medicines needed. If you wear contacts or glasses, bring a spare pair or bring a copy of your prescription.
Pharmacies and chemists carry most prescriptions, however it can be expensive, so its best to have your
scripts filled before you go, and carry these medicines along with a letter from your GP explaining your
medical conditions.

Stay Safe
Traveling in the UK is not dangerous, but a level of caution should always be taken when touring in any foreign country. The majority of crimes tend to occur in the larger cities, such as London, where tourists can be
targeted by crimes such as bag snatching and pick pocketing. The best advice is to keep your valuables close
to your body and out of reach from potential thieves, avoid lonely streets out of hours and dont flash your
wealth and make yourself an obvious target.
Car break-ins, theft, smash and grab and vandalism on tourists vehicles can occur, but can be prevented by
keeping valuables or bags out of sight, securely locking cars or using off-street supervised parking. As a
precaution lock your doors when driving in the larger towns, especially after dark.
In the unlikely event of theft or loss, be sure to inform all your credit card companies as soon as you discover
your wallet has been lost or stolen. Most credit card companies have toll free numbers to call if your cards
are lost or stolen, and they may be able to issue an emergency replacement card or wire you an cash advance.

Where to Get Help


England:

Scotland

Local Tourist Boards:

Embassy of the USA


55/56 Upper Brook Street
London, W1A 2LQ
PH: + 44 20 7499 9000

US Consulate
3 Regent Terrace
Edinburgh, EH7 5BW
PH:+ 44 131 556 8315

www.visitbritain.com
www.visitengland.com
www.visitscotland.com
www.visitwales.com.
www.discovernorthernireland.com

Police, Ambulance or Fire Service:


Call 999 or 112 from any phone

Climate and Weather


The UK has a temperate climate with plenty of rainfall year round. Cloudy weather and light drizzle are common in almost all parts of UK at any time of the year. The temperatures inland will range from just below
freezing at the depths of winter to a maximum of 86f at the height of summer. Extreme weather is rare, however snow, hail, heavy rains and heatwaves can sometimes occur.

Public Holidays 2012

01 Jan
06 Apr
09 Apr
07 May
04 June

New Years Day


Good Friday
Easter Monday
Early May Bank Holiday
Spring Bank Holiday

12 Jul
06 Aug
27 Aug
25 Dec
26 Dec

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Battle of the Boyne (Northern Ireland only)


Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland only)
Summer Bank Holiday (except Scotland)
Christmas Day
Boxing Day

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36

Key Facts
Location: Northwest Europe
Area: 242,514 sq km
Capital: London

Largest City: London


Population: 60.8 million
Population Density: 250.7

Geography:
The total land area of the United Kingdom is about 245,000 square
kilometres, and is composed of the countries of Great Britain, Scotland,
Wales and Northern Ireland. The UK lies off the north-western coast of
mainland Europe in the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. Most of England is relatively flat or lowlying with mountainous terrain in the north and northwest regions. Northern Ireland is mostly hilly, and
Wales is mostly mountainous. Scotlands regions vary from lowlands in the south and east, and highlands in
the north and west.
Language
English is the spoken in the majority of the UK. In Ireland, Gaelic is spoken in some counties.
Communications:
Telephone
Country code for the UK is 44. There are plenty of the public payphones available, where you can use
pounds or euros, and many have credit/debit card facilities.
Mobile phones that have dual or trial band with GSM 900 or 1800 will work within the UK, but check with
your mobile phone provider before you leave that the roaming function is activated on your phone. If not,
you can purchase a prepaid, ready to use mobile phone for less than 50 from most major shopping centres
in the UK.
Internet
Most urban areas have internet cafes, and there are a growing number of Wi-Fi hotspots. Most international
airports will offer internet access.
Post
Post offices are located in almost all towns and cities across the United Kingdom. Post office hours are
Monday to Friday 9:00am until 5:30pm, and Saturday 9:00am until 12:30pm.
Measurements
The United Kingdom uses the metric system of measurement:
1 millimeter (mm) = 0.03937 inches
1 centimeter (cm )= 0.3937 inches
1 meter (m) = 1.0936 yd
1 kilometer (km) = 0.6214 mile

1 milligram (mg) = 0.0154 grain


1 gram (gm)= 0.0353 oz
1 kilogram (kg) = 2.2046lb
1 tonne (t) = 0.9842 ton

Temperature is measured in degrees Celsius.


Shopping hours
In the UK most stores are open from 9:00 or 10:00 am to 6:00pm seven days a week, with longer trading
hours until 9:00pm most Thursdays and Fridays in the larger cities.
Electricity
The voltage used in Britain is 240 volts AC at 50hz, with the power sockets designed for the standard 3-pin
square plug. Plug socket adaptors can be purchased at most airports or electrical and hardware stores.
Smoking
Smoking is illegal in all public buildings, bus shelters and train stations. Most pubs and clubs have designated smoking areas. Non-smoking areas are well signposted.
Time Zone
GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

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Money Matters
Currency
The currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling
(). Notes come in 5, 10, 20 and 50 denominations,
and coins come in 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, 1 and 2.
Youll often hear the pound referred to colloquially as a
quid.

Currency Exchange

Credit & Debit Cards


American Express, Visa and MasterCard are all widely accepted across the UK. Credit cards can be used in
larger businesses, while the smaller businesses prefer debit cards.

Travelers Cheques

Travellers cheques are widely accepted in the UK.


Foreign currency can be exchanged at Bureau de Change Take travellers cheques into the UK in pounds sterat international airports and major city centers, as well as ling to avoid additional exchange rate charges. You
banks, post offices and some hotels.
may need a form of photo identification to use travellers cheques.
Banking Hours
Standard banking hours are Monday to Friday 9:00Tipping
9:30am until 3:30-4:00pm, Many bank branches stay
open late once a week until 5:30 or 6:00pm, and are often Tipping is common practice in the UK. Restaurants
and cafs that provide good service would expect
open on Saturdays as well (9:00-9:30am until 12:30around 10-15% tip. In pubs with food or drinks or3:30pm). Banks in England and Wales remain open over
lunch, but many banks in Scotland and Northern Ireland dered and served at the bar no tip is required however meals brought to your table may require a tip.
close for an hour at lunch.

ATMs
ATMs are located almost everywhere in the UK, except in
the smallest villages.

Tax
Value Added Tax VAT is a mandatory up to 20% tax on
most goods and services in the UK. Generally the VAT is
included in the ticketed price, however some larger, more
expensive goods may not have the VAT included and will
display excl VAT.

This touring information has been created to be used as a guide only.


Auto Europe is not liable for any misinformation, typographical
errors, etc. related to the information contained in this guide. Auto
Europe would like to thank Britain Tourist Board for their assistance
in producing this guide. For further information, please visit
www.visitbritain.com.

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